Union Minister Jitan Ram Manjhi Urges Speaker to Increase Speaking Time for SC/ST Lawmakers

Times of India•Published: Sep 26, 2026 10:10 AM IST

Union Minister and NDA ally Jitan Ram Manjhi has formally requested Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla to ensure SC and ST lawmakers receive adequate time to speak during parliamentary debates. The appeal supports a prior request from a BJP colleague, emphasizing the need for better representation of marginalized communities during discussions on significant legislative bills.

Formal Request: Manjhi submitted a written appeal to Speaker Om Birla advocating for equitable participation for SC/ST representatives.
Legislative Representation: The initiative aims to ensure that voices from marginalized communities are heard during critical parliamentary debates.
Alliance Support: The move aligns with a similar request previously made by a BJP MP, highlighting a push within the NDA for inclusive legislative discourse.

The Context & Background

This request follows ongoing discussions regarding the efficacy of parliamentary procedures and the inclusivity of legislative debates. It reflects a broader effort by NDA partners to emphasize the representation of SC/ST communities in the national decision-making process.

Why it matters:Ensuring adequate speaking time for SC/ST MPs is vital for inclusive governance and democratic representation. By amplifying these voices, the Parliament can better address the specific concerns and socio-economic challenges faced by marginalized communities during the drafting and passing of national legislation.

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